A Literary and Musical Celebration of those who make a Difference in Our Community

Join us for the seventh annual star-studded Acts of Love. An ensemble cast will perform an array of readings and quotes all in celebration of champions in the Autism Community. Through ticket sales, sponsorship and donations, the event is projected to raise more than $100,000 for autism research and treatment.

Acts of Love 2009 is a one-night only awards reception to celebrate those who have made a difference in the Autism Community. Awards will be given to remarkable champions in the following categories:

Awareness/Media:Shawn Ryan ("The Shield")

Shawn Ryan worked as a writer and producer on such shows as “ Nash Bridges” and “Angel” before creating and head writing “The Shield,” which in its first year won the Golden Globe for best dramatic series. It is also notable for having a prominent character affected by autism.

Science/Research:
Bob & Lynn Koegel (UCSB)

Dr. Robert Koegel has focused his career in the area of autism, specializing in language intervention, family support, and school integration. He has published over two hundred articles and papers relating to the treatment of autism. Dr. Lynn Kern Koegel is the Clinical Director of Autism Services in the UCSB Autism Research Center and the Director of the Eli and Edythe L. Broad Center for Asperger’s Research. The Koegels are the developers of PivotalResponse Treatment which focuses on motivation.

Soryl Markowitz, LCSW is the Autism and Behavior Specialist at Westside Regional Center, where she has been a staff member for 20 years. She has been working with individuals on the autism spectrum since the early 1970’s and collaborates with families, service coordinators, education agencies, community agencies and organizations, as well as behavior providers to create and provide appropriate, effective services for individuals.

Family Services:
Jay Nolan Family Services

Jay Nolan Community Services has supported individuals since 1975 with social, residential, recreational and employment programs that provide individuals with valued roles in their chosen communities, based on person special needs and aspirations.